3 minute read - 20th December 2023
Bumper 2023 for Airbus after landing more orders
The Airbus 2023 order book has continued to grow after securing more orders. easyJet has confirmed a firm order for 157 additional A320neo family aircraft following shareholder approval. The firm order comprises 56 A320neo and 101 A321neo aircraft and also includes the upsizing of an existing order for 35 A320neo into the larger A321neo. The agreement is part of easyJet’s fleet renewal and upgauging plan and is also bringing substantial sustainability improvements to its business.
The A320neo family is the world’s most popular single-aisle having won over 18,000 orders from nearly 140 customers in all markets. All wings on Airbus commercial aircraft are designed in the UK, with the majority built in North Wales.
The A321neo is the largest member of Airbus’ A320neo family. By incorporating new generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo brings a 50% noise reduction and more than 20% fuel savings and CO2 reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft. To date, over 5,600 A321neos have been ordered by more than 100 customers across the globe.
2023 orders continue for Airbus with A320neo and A220 deals. All wings on Airbus commercial aircraft are designed in the UK, with the majority built in North Wales / Picture: Airbus
Johan Lundgren, CEO of easyJet, said: “We are very pleased to be able to confirm this significant order which not only enables easyJet to replace its older aircraft with more efficient aircraft, a core component of our net zero roadmap, but also provides us ability for disciplined growth, including the significant opportunity that upgauging brings. With this order, easyJet will be able to continue to cement its leading position at Europe’s primary airports and so we look forward to working in partnership with Airbus in the years to come.”
Christian Scherer, chief commercial officer and head of international at Airbus, added: “Airbus is delighted to be accompanying easyJet in its fleet growth and renewal. Its Airbus fleet allows easyJet to differentiate its offering in its competitive market with the most state-of-the-art, modern and comfortable aircraft. easyJet and Airbus both are strong advocates for the aviation sector to de-carbonise. This significant investment into the most fuel efficient and SAF-capable aircraft is a testimony to our joint commitment in this respect. Bravo easyJet, and thank you!”
In addition to the easyJet order, Lufthansa Group has placed a firm order for an additional 40 A220-300s for its short and medium-haul fleet. The A220 has been in service with the Group since 2016, when SWISS put the first aircraft into scheduled service. Lufthansa has a long standing relationship with Airbus – since the A300 in the 1970’s, Lufthansa has operated all members of the Airbus product family, from the A220, A320-family, A330 / A340, A350 and the A380.
In addition to the easyJet order, Lufthansa Group has placed an order for 40 A220 aircraft / Picture: Airbus
Christian Scherer, added: “The Lufthansa Group was one of the first customers for the A220 and has successfully operated the aircraft in its SWISS route network ever since. We are delighted by this testimony of confidence from our long-standing partner and customer.”
The latest A220-300 is the larger sibling of the successful A220 family, carrying between 120 to 150 passengers on flights of up to 3,400 nautical miles (6,300 km). The aircraft offers 25% lower fuel burn and CO2 emissions per seat compared to previous generation aircraft. It also has the largest cabin, seats and windows in its class.
